a certain line

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a certain line" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific line or statement without naming it directly, often in discussions or analyses. Example: "In the poem, the author expresses deep emotion in a certain line that resonates with many readers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

But it shouldn't cross a certain line".

The New Yorker

But when people crossed a certain line.... You're like, 'Wait.

The New Yorker

"If I go over a certain line, I'm like another person," he said.

The New Yorker

"It's not that we're choosing publications to pick a certain line," she told Bloomberg.

The Guardian

Q: Did they suggest to you that they have a certain line of inquiry?

The New York Times

That led to a critique of a certain line of rain boots.

The New York Times

"All journalists to a very great extent are forced to toe a certain line," he said.

The New York Times

"When he impersonated an F.B.I. agent, that's when he crossed a certain line".

The New York Times

I also witnessed many people being arrested for not moving behind a certain line the police had made up.

The Guardian

You wrote about Germaine Greer and a certain line of feminism that you say "hates" trans people.

The Guardian

Do you agree that, past a certain line, such distaste can turn everything arch and sneering and too ironic?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a certain line" when you want to refer to a specific boundary, limit, or statement without explicitly defining it. This can be useful in contexts where the exact details are either understood or not necessary for the discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "a certain line" when specificity is crucial. If the context requires a clear definition, provide the necessary details instead of relying on vague references.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a certain line" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun (line) and indicating a specific, but unnamed, entity. Ludwig's examples show it frequently used to denote boundaries, limits, or courses of action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

19%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a certain line" is a versatile determiner phrase used to indicate a specific but unnamed limit, boundary, or course of action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, including news, science, and general communication. When using this phrase, ensure that the context provides sufficient understanding of the line being referenced, and avoid overuse when clarity is paramount. Alternatives include "a specific boundary" or "a particular limit" if more precision is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific boundary

Emphasizes the precise nature of the line as a defined limit.

a particular limit

Highlights the distinct and individual nature of the limit.

a definite border

Stresses the clear and unambiguous nature of the demarcation.

a prescribed course

Focuses on an established or required path or direction.

a given direction

Highlights a pre-determined or assigned route.

a designated boundary

Indicates that the boundary has been officially assigned or marked.

an established limit

Implies the limit is recognized or has been in place for some time.

a well-defined limit

Emphasizes the clarity and precision of the limit.

a clear distinction

Highlights a noticeable and unambiguous difference.

a select route

Focuses on the action of choosing one of two alternatives.

FAQs

How can I use "a certain line" in a sentence?

You can use "a certain line" to refer to a boundary, limit, or direction without being specific. For example, "Politicians should not cross "a certain line" in their personal attacks."

What are some alternatives to "a certain line"?

Alternatives include "a specific boundary", "a particular limit", or "a prescribed course", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a certain line" instead of being more specific?

It's appropriate when the exact details are either implied, understood from the context, or not essential to the point you're making. However, avoid it when clarity is crucial.

Is it correct to say "a certain line" or should I always provide more detail?

It is grammatically correct, and Ludwig AI confirms it. Whether to provide more detail depends on your audience and the level of precision required. Sometimes, avoiding specifics is useful.